The best time to plant natives is in the fall and winter when the temperatures are cooler and rain falls (hopefully!)

At the time of planting, soak the hole dug for the plant rootball, let it drain thoroughly, then insert the plant (see Installation section for more details),

Build a temporary berm around the plant to form a basin and then fill the basin with water, allowing it to soak the root ball well. Allow the berm to diminish naturally over time. Permanent berms lead to crown rot.

During the rooting establishment period (normally for one growing season), water native plants until they are established, but water them less than non-natives to avoid over-watering that can lead to disease and decline.

For good, healthy native plants, once they are established do not to expect them to get along without water during the non-rainy season; they will need a "little drink" of water every 2 – 8 weeks, depending on soil type and location as well as the time of year (more frequent in the summer, less frequent in the spring and fall). Water sufficiently to permit a deep moistening effect.

Don't over-water; if the soil remains moist continuously during the non-rainy season, native plants will eventually suffer root rot and die (excluding riparian varieties which thrive on water)

Definitely be certain to cut back on the amount of applied water after the root establishment period, switching to the "little drink" mode. Don't forget to do this. It is easy to continue with old watering habits, but if you do, the old habits will kill your plants.